Nation mourns the death of Pataudi

Describing Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi as a "quintessential gentleman" who contributed immensely to cricket, President Pratibha Patil, Vice President Hamid Ansari and leaders of various political parties including Congress chief Sonia Gandhi on Thursday condoled the death of the former Indian captain.

His stylish batting style and agile fielding abilities define a new generation of Indian cricketers of that period, the President said.

"I am deeply grieved to learn about the sad demise of Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, eminent cricketer and sportsperson. Pataudi's contributions to the game of cricket throughout his life as a player, captain, coach and analyst needs no elaboration" Ansari said in his condolence message.

Pataudi, 70, who was known as 'Tiger' in the cricket fraternity, breathed his last at a hospital here this evening.

The Vice President said Pataudi embodied the quintessential gentleman of the game of cricket and promoted the game with all effort.

"His absence from the game of cricket and public life is a terrible loss. My wife joins me in sending our heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family and the wide circle of his admirers and friends," Ansari said.

Sonia Gandhi said the void created by Pataudi's death in sports and public arena will be difficult to fill.